Off topic, but related subject matter...

[Stephen Lamb]

>         I've heard rumours that a company somewhere had developed a system
>that replaces camshafts with computer controlled solenoids to actuate the
>valve train. Has anyone here heard the same, or know a logical point to
>start searching from? From a performance standpoint, one could program a
>limitless variety of "virtual camshaft" profiles, like Honda's VTEC, or any
>of the available variable valve timing schemes. Only more so, as one is not
>limited to 2 profiles.

I think it was Renault (?) that developed a pneumatically operated valve
system for their F1 engines some years back.  Don't know much about it or
how successful it was.

Cheers

Stephen Lamb
Dept. of Defence DSTO, AMRL
506 Lorimer Street
Fishermans Bend  VIC  3207 Australia
Tel: +61 3 9626 7525
Fax: +61 3 9626 7089

IZCC #180